United Way Plane Pull hauls in over $107K to fight poverty
Using sheer will and muscle power, nearly 600 Calgarians gathered on a runway at Calgary’s airport Sunday for the United Way Plane Pull, competing to haul an Airbus A300 as far as 15 metres across the tarmac.
The event raised more than $107,000 to fight poverty and build community across Calgary, bringing the annual event’s grand total to more than half a million dollars in the past six years.
“It’s so exciting the way people come together for this event,” said Karen Young, United Way president and CEO.
“Everybody is so energetic and enthusiastic. And they really care about reducing poverty and building up the community.
“Calgary is a city that believes in itself. It is a city committed to building communities where everyone can access opportunity and feel a sense of belonging.”
Forty-five teams of 15 members used “superhuman power” to compete in a challenge that saw them pull an 86,000-kilogram UPS plane 15 metres along the tarmac in the fastest time possible, with Pembina Pipeline’s team coming out on top.
Hundreds came out to cheer on their favourite teams and take in the family-friendly entertainment, including a petting zoo, face painting, food trucks and appearances by Holybatman and the 501st Badlands Garrison, in full Star Wars regalia.
Funds raised by the United Way Plane Pull will be invested into the community through the organization’s three focus areas of overcoming poverty, helping kids succeed, and building strong communities.
“Today’s United Way Plane Pull shows what we can accomplish when we all pull together toward a common goal. What a great metaphor for what we are trying to achieve through our campaign,” Young added.
The annual event is also hosted and sponsored by UPS Canada.